The latest grim development sent a shockwave through New Zealand as people struggled to understand how her OE downunder could come to such brutal end.

"I am disgusted this happened in New Zealand. Not feeling like a proud Kiwi," one person commented on Facebook.

"I am today ashamed to be a Kiwi, this has bought shame on our country internationally. Every country has its problems but taking advantage of a young girl so far from home is so low," another wrote.

Ms Millane had previously spent six-weeks visiting South America before arriving here on Tuesday, November 20. To think that she made it so far only to die here has enraged the public.

"She made it safely through South America but murdered when she reaches New Zealand??!! How absolutely disgraceful for us all to have that shame. Difficult to take pride in our country," one person said.